About the Area
Lake of the Ozarks State Park offers many fun activities for just about anyone. Boating, canoeing, mountain biking, hiking, and camping are just some of the activities to pursue other than bird watching. This park is the largest in the largest State Park in the entire park system, and you would certainly need to take multiple days to see it all. The Ozark Caverns has guided tours of the geologic wonders found within. Angel Showers, an unusual phenomenon found in this cavern, is a seemingly never-ending shower of water leaking from the solid ceiling of rock. The 1275-acre Patterson Hollow Wild Area is on your right as you enter the Park. This Wild Area offers some of the best birding in the region. the Coakley Hollow Fen Natural Area, comprised of spring-fed streams, seeps, caves, fens, glades and deep valleys has an interpretive trail that guides visitors through these unique habitats. In addition, the Bluestem Knoll, an ecological stewardship management area, features an open woodland and prairie ground cover, and attracts a great diversity of bird species. Miles and miles of trails crisscross the Park, including traditional hiking trails as well as mountain bike trails, equestrian trails, and even an aquatic trail for canoes and kayaks. Look for Eastern Whip-poor-will, Acadian Flycatcher, and Philadelphia Vireo.
From Columbia, take Hwy 63 north, exit on Peabody Rd., and follow the signage to the park.
Dining and lodging accommodations can be found in nearby Camdenton. The picturesque Lake of the Ozarks area is ideal for tourists, making it a great place to spend a weekend. Fine dining, beautiful vineyards, and cozy cafes complement the scenic resorts that line the shores of The Lake. The birding in the area is excellent, with several nearby hotspots. Lead Mine CA, Ha Ha Tonka State Park, and Bennett Spring State Park are just some of the great birding areas within a 20-minute drive.